Commitment: 5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Lab Grown Diamonds

At MYEL, we've always been very conscious of our ecological footprint when we create jewellery. As most of us know, the jewellery industry could benefit from greater transparency regulations. However, there are ways to create jewellery that is more eco-friendly, starting with the choice of materials. That's why MYEL is committed to entirely local jewellery - from design to production. We are also committed to using ethical stones such as Canadian diamonds, recycled diamonds, Montana sapphires and synthetic gems.

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In this day and age, it’s hard not to see the human, ecological and ethical conflict that surrounds diamond mining. At MYEL, we wholeheartedly believe that the future lies in the production of jewelry set with synthetic diamonds, also called lab grown diamonds, cultured or cultivated diamonds.

Natural diamonds are formed by a chemical process that crystalizes carbon molecules present in the earth. Simply, carbon molecules are transformed in diamond following extreme pressure or heat. Contrary to popular belief, natural diamonds are not a rare occurrence – the rarity of diamonds has to do with their low rate of extraction, which stems from the limited human capabilities of mining companies.

Synthetic diamonds are made using technologies that allow for the recreation of the natural process described above… in a matter of weeks! From a natural diamond (called grains), and by applying a technological process, labs are able to produce new diamonds. These lab grown diamonds offer many advantage. While structurally identical to natural diamonds, they are a wonderful alternative for people who are looking for gems that align with their values.

Here are five reasons why you should consider buying jewelry set with lab grown diamonds.

1. The same, but better

Lab grown and natural diamonds are identical – the only difference is their provenance. Both are cut and polished using the same methods, and receive the same official certification regarding their quality. Moreover, not having been exposed to the pressures and transformations of the Earth, synthetic diamonds tend to have fewer imperfections.

2. A socially responsible purchase

Knowing a diamond’s provenance is obviously important. Unfortunately, it is more often than not impossible to trace, except for Canadian or synthetic diamonds. The only way for a customer to make sure they are not buying a blood diamond is to choose a lab grown diamond. Companies that produce synthetic diamonds often have socially responsible values and don’t contribute to human and ecological exploitation.

3. Even better for your wallet

The diamond industry’s power players often pocket a large part of a diamond’s final price. It is one of the elements that contribute to the high price of natural diamonds. Choosing a lab grown diamond thus means that you can get a bigger or better quality diamond for the same price.

4. Reduce your ecological footprint

Immense quarries are necessary to extract diamonds – the second largest hole on the surface of the Earth is a diamond mine a mile in diameter and 1,722 feet deep (ADA Diamonds). A “sustainable” mine has to extract 1,750 tons of earth in order to find a single diamond carat. Lab grown diamonds are a far more ecological option, although not perfect. One still has to know the company that produces them to make sure they aren’t made in less than optimal conditions or in coal-powered factories in India.

5. Wear your values

If you believe in ecologically responsible values and smart purchases, why not apply the same way of thinking to jewelry? A piece of jewelry set with synthetic diamonds will impress most people and communicate authentic values of social responsibility. And if you’re on the market for an engagement ring, remember that nothing is classier than doing what’s best for our planet.

Diamonds are still complex gems to produce in labs and demand an outstanding expertise. With their ever-increasing accessibility, they allow for ethical jewelry to flourish. At MYEL, we are convinced that synthetic diamonds are the way of the future.